Wanted Felon in Custody in New York

CHAMPLAIN, N.Y. — Today, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) announced the arrest of a New York State wanted felon.

On Nov. 12, CBP officers working at the Champlain port of entry encountered 28-year-old Joseph Eliof, a citizen of the United States and resident of Plattsburgh, NY.

Eliof arrived at the port in the custody of the Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA) today. Previous arrangements were made between CBSA and CBP for the return of Eliof in order for him to face charges in the United States.

Eliof was found to be wanted in Clinton County for a felony charge of sexual assault against a child. Once CBP officers verified the warrant and confirmed extradition to Illinois, Eliof was arrested by CBP and subsequently turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.

CBP is responsible for securing our borders while facilitating the flow of legitimate trade and travel into and out of the United States. We also assist and support the law enforcement efforts of our state, local, tribal, federal and international partners on both sides of the border, as we carry out our traditional border-related responsibilities. We will continue to collaborate, and actively share intelligence and information as we work together to ensure the security of our mutually shared border and the safety of our communities.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection is the unified border agency within the Department of Homeland Security charged with the management, control and protection of our nation's borders at and between the official ports of entry. CBP is charged with keeping terrorists and terrorist weapons out of the country while enforcing hundreds of U.S. laws.